Ground Robotics

Ground Robotics is focused on modernizing the current Ground Robotic fleets by investigating technology insertions such as condition-based maintenance, vetronics, Robotic Architecture, autonomous operations, and other emerging technologies. This program supports the development of initial prototypes to enable refinement of Operational Requirements and early user feedback to support future sustainment and operational movement operating concepts. It also plays a key role in supporting the Army Modernization Priorities through the Universal Robotic Controller program. The specific projects within this program include Robotic Payloads, Robotics Architecture, Squad Multipurpose Equipment Transport (SMET), and Common Robotic Controller.

The Robotic Payloads project within PE 0605053A aims to develop a suite of modular capabilities with open architecture to provide increased standoff, situational awareness, disruption capability, and dexterity to respond to current and emergent Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), and Engineer requirements. This includes the development and testing of capabilities such as Extended Range Mesh Network (ERMN), Pan/Tilt Imager (PTI), and Obstacle Avoidance & Digital Modeling (OA&DM) to be integrated with the Man Transportable Robotic Systems Increment II (MTRS Inc II) and Common Robotic System - Heavy (CRS-H) platforms. The goal is to allow the first approach to potentially explosive hazards to be made by a robot rather than a Soldier.

The Robotics Architecture project focuses on providing engineering and development resources to manage the overarching architecture for robotic systems that are both modular and interoperable across the Joint Force. This includes managing interoperability standards, modular payload interfaces, common software, and common architecture for robotics & autonomous platforms, payloads & universal controllers. The project also aims to establish a Common Specifications Reference Volume 3d (CSR) as a repository codifying the Army Robotic Autonomous Systems (RAS) standards for open architecture, interoperability interfaces, common control, performance specifications, and test results. The goal is to facilitate future modernization efforts by providing a foundation for compatibility between next-generation autonomous & unmanned software products.

The Squad Multipurpose Equipment Transport (SMET) project provides small units with a remote-controlled cargo/equipment transport and limited tactical resupply capability. It aims to increase mission capabilities while reducing the individual Soldier load by carrying 2,500 pounds of equipment required to support Infantry and Engineer Platoons in the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) for a 72-hour mission without resupply. Additionally, it integrates a number of Modular Mission Payloads (MMP) and technical insertions to enhance its capabilities.

The Universal Robotics Control (URC) project aims to provide a common information system for all squad and above Robotic and Autonomous Systems (RAS) command and control (C2). It responds to the challenge of transforming the Command and Control warfighting function to execute the RAS strategy in support of Multi-Domain Operations by developing and fielding a system that rapidly synchronizes effects in all domains to defeat the enemy regardless of the mission command network. The URC operates as a distributed information system designed for resilience in a high threat environment utilizing existing and planned RAS elements.

Overall, these projects within Program PE 0605053A are focused on advancing robotic technologies for military applications while ensuring interoperability across different systems and platforms.